World Cup 2026 Stadium Capacities: All 16 Venues Listed

Capacity overview

World Cup 2026 stadium capacities range from roughly 45,000 (BMO Field in Toronto, currently being expanded) to 87,000 (Estadio Azteca in Mexico City). Eight of the 16 venues hold 70,000 or more. Total seated capacity across all 16 stadiums is approximately 1.05 million spectators, with the average match capacity around 65,000. Capacities are listed in football configuration — many of these stadiums hold more for concerts or NFL.

How capacities affect ticket markets

Larger stadiums lower resale price pressure because more inventory exists. The smallest venues (BMO Field, Estadio Akron, Estadio BBVA, Levi's Stadium, BC Place) typically see the tightest resale markets and the highest premium above FIFA face value. Conversely, AT&T Stadium (Dallas) and MetLife Stadium (New York/NJ) are large enough that group-stage tickets stay reasonably available into the final sales phase.

Pitch dimensions and surfaces

FIFA requires natural grass for World Cup matches. Many North American host stadiums have artificial turf for NFL or MLS use during the year — these venues lay temporary natural grass for the tournament. The procedure adds roughly 4–6 weeks of pre-tournament prep per venue and is one reason FIFA host announcements come several years in advance. All pitch dimensions meet the FIFA standard of 105m × 68m.

Final venue capacity

The final at MetLife Stadium has a listed capacity of approximately 82,500 in standard configuration, placing it near the largest end of the venue range. Estadio Azteca (Mexico City), which hosts the opening match, is the largest venue with roughly 87,000 capacity — meaning the opening match has the highest possible attendance of the tournament. Both venues have hosted multiple FIFA tournaments previously and are well-established for international football logistics.

• Largest venue: Estadio Azteca (~87,000) — hosts opening match.
• Final venue: MetLife Stadium (~82,500) — second-largest.
• Eight venues hold 70,000 or more.
• Smallest venue: BMO Field Toronto (~45,000, being expanded).
• Total seated capacity across 16 stadiums: roughly 1.05 million.

Retractable-roof venues

Four host stadiums have retractable roofs: AT&T Stadium (Dallas), NRG Stadium (Houston), Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta) and Estadio BBVA (Monterrey). FIFA will likely close these roofs for high-heat afternoon matches to protect player welfare and accelerate match tempo. BC Place (Vancouver) has a fixed retractable roof that is typically kept closed. The remaining 11 venues are open-air, which means heat, rain and lightning advisories apply directly to match scheduling.

All 16 stadium capacities (sorted descending)

Capacities listed in football configuration. Some venues hold more for other sports.

What is the largest World Cup 2026 stadium?

Estadio Azteca in Mexico City is the largest at approximately 87,000 capacity, and it hosts the opening match.

What is the smallest World Cup 2026 stadium?

BMO Field in Toronto is the smallest at roughly 45,000 capacity. It is currently being expanded for the tournament.

What is the capacity of MetLife Stadium?

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey has a capacity of approximately 82,500 and hosts the 2026 final.

How many stadiums host the 2026 World Cup?

16 stadiums host the tournament: 11 in the USA, 3 in Mexico and 2 in Canada.

Do all World Cup 2026 stadiums have natural grass?

Yes. FIFA requires natural grass for all matches. North American venues that use artificial turf year-round lay temporary natural grass for the tournament.